JACKSONVILLE, AR --
Bryce Allen Sr. didn't want to talk at first."I can't believe it that my son is in a catastrophe like that," said Bryce Allen Sr., the father of the supect.
But finally agreed, saying we could only use our I-phone video camera.
"Things happen but I'm sorry that it did happen and my son was involved in some stuff like that," Allen Sr. said.
Jacksonville Police arrested his son a week ago for the death of Fire Captain Donny Jones and severely injuring firefighter Jason Bowmaster and police officer Daniel DiMatteo. The department's spokeswoman says Allen Jr. ran into the first responders as they helped his mother along Highway 161.
The father said it doesn't sound like his son.
"I didn't think he'd do something like that. I know he was trying to get to his mother probably, but as far as that other part catastrophe stuff, I can't believe it," said Allen Sr.
He said the younger Allen went to church regularly and tried to be a good father to his children. He believes his son's time in service may have contributed to the erratic behavior.
"He's a grown man and he needs to get veterans' help because things happen to veterans. You know what I mean. A lot of nervous conditions," said the father.
He hasn't talked to his son and admits he doesn't have a close relationship with him. He just hopes his son gets the help he needs.
"All I want to say is I'm sorry and he's a church going man and he needs mental help," the father said.
